June 19, 2012
I have loved Dolly for years, but am so hurt by her decision to build a theme park with Opryland, just down the street from my home.  There has been no communication with us about traffic studies, etc...  Opryland is a horrible neighbor and never communicates with the near-by communities. Our subdivision, like Opryland,  flooded in May 2010 and we have worked hard to recovery.  Does Dolly know this?  And does she care?
Pam Miller
Nashville, Tenn.
I appreciate your concerns, Pam, and am sorry that your home flooded, as did thousands of others throughout the city. However, you chose to purchase a home in an area of the city that was across the street from a major tourist attraction and has been for the past 40 years, so it would seem naïve to think that areas around that tourist attraction would not be developed in the eventual future.

Dec. 8, 2011
you are the best site for dolly info .im wanting address to try and get her autograph. would be grateful if you could let me know.
Del
Swansea, Wales, U.K.
Thanks, Del. If you run into her somewhere, such as coming out of a restaurant, she'll usually stop to sign items -- which often end up on ebay, but you can never be completely sure of its authenticity if it's being sold on ebay :) You can also buy autographed items she has donated for charity auctions. And the store on her record label website, dollypartonmusic.net, occasionally features deluxe merchandise packages that include an autographed item and currently has one for the holidays.

Dec. 8, 2011
Hey Duane. great site...the best there is. Question for you: how come Dollymainia is so so short on Better Day Tour photos? I thought with Dolly on the road most of the year we'd have seen piles of pictures!  Thanks!
Julian Fries
Los Angeles, Calif.
Thanks, Julian. It's a combination of things. First, very few readers submitted photos for posting. I unfortunately was unable to attend any shows on this tour due to work commitments, so I didn't take any and had to rely exclusively on readers to send them in. In addition, my work demands have greatly limited my available time to work on the site this summer and fall, so I only ended up getting maybe a third of the images posted. I hope to go back and add the others, but I just haven't had time.

Dec. 6, 2011
Duane, Just wanted to let you know That I check DOLLYMANIA every day. you always have the latest news on our DOLLY, your work and dedication is extraordinary, thank you from down under. I won a Meet and Greet  at her Sydney concert, DOLLY    was amazing. 
Claudia
Sydney, NSW, Australia
Thanks, Claudia, and congrats on meeting Dolly!

Dec. 5, 2011
Hi Duane, If possible could you ask your readers to vote for My friend's Library in the Imagination Library competition, All they have to do is click on the link I will provide, and find the story titled Fundraising with Cheryl, then click on the thumbs up. They can vote once per day! We have reached the final 20, and realy want to win the $500 funds towards her 'Deer Park' Library! Thank you in advance!  http://promoshq.wildfireapp.com/website/6/contests/171609!
Sarah Laverick
Stockton on Tees, England
Consider it “plugged,” Sarah!

Dec. 5, 2011
Hello!! I have a few questions. First off i'm am so happy Dolly is going to put out another LIVE DVD! Do you know if she will also add a CD like she did with Live at Last and Live in London? Next, Have you heard anything at all about that Dance/Pop album Dolly was working on a few years ago now, was it just canceled or something? Last, I was wondering if Dolly would ever put out  a Big Hits/best of/singles collection of her new music? every collection album I find has the same old stuff... 9to5,jolene,I will always love you,ect... I really wish she would put together a collection of stuff from the Hungary Again era through Better Day era, she has more than enough singles to do a really nice 2 disk collection. Thank you for any and all answers you can give me! xoxoxoBobbie
Bobbie
Lansing, Mich.
Well, Bobbie, no news has come out about the DVD except that one attendee at the concert tells me she announced that show was being recorded for a DVD and a newspaper reviewer reported it as well, so we'll have to wait for an official announcement to come from her record label on the actual details. Likewise, no word in a year or more on the dance CD. She hasn't mentioned it, so I don't know what the status of that is at this point. Finally, on a new compilation, my understanding is that offers have been made by other labels to include some of her more recent tracks on recent compilations along with her older material, but with the exception of licensing “Shine” to go on The Essential Dolly Parton in 2005, she has declined all other such requests. She has given no indication of plans to release such a collection on her own, but you never know! Unfortunately, the status of her recordings and whether she could put such a compilation out herself are unknown. Although Treasures and Hungry Again were released with her Blue Eye imprint on Universal labels Rising Tide and Decca, respectively, I do not know if her contract with either label gave her ownership of the album masters and, if so, what rights she retained insofar as ability to re-issue them. Likewise, for her Sugar Hill period, while she maintained ownership of the masters, she entered into a new contract with Sugar Hill and its parent company, Welk Music Group, for each album and I do not know enough details of those contracts to know whether she has re-issue rights on those albums as well. Then Trio II was released on the Warner Brothers labels Asylum/Elecktra, which would own the rights to that recording. Since she has released her new material from 2007 through today on her own personal label, she could cull from at least her Dolly Records albums a greatest hits compilation if she so chooses.

Dec. 5, 2011
Hey Duane... Just a thought.. Have you ever considered creating an iphone app.. THAT would be awesome..
Scott David
Shelby, N.C.
Thanks, Scott. I've thought about it, but it often costs several thousand dollars to create a smartphone app, then it costs each month to host and maintain it, and those are expenses I just can't afford to offer. The only revenue the site generates comes from a small commission on each Amazon.com sale via the links for products placed on the site (so, everyone, please click on one such as this and then do your Christmas shopping so I get a commission on each item you purchase through Amazon after clicking on the link!). This usually results in just a few hundred dollars per year – enough to cover the site's web hosting fees, my subscription to Billboard for chart data, and other site-related expenses like that, but nowhere near enough to cover the cost of an app.

Dec. 5, 2011
Hey Duane, It looks like Katy Perry had a recent Birthday party and the entertainment was a Dolly impersonator!  Thought you might find that interesting. . here is a link of sever pictures from Perez Hilton. http://perezhilton.com/galleries/index.php?preview_pgid=200468&random_number=3960375.
Nick B.
Tipton, Mo.
Thanks, Nick! LOL!

Dec. 5, 2011
i love DOLLYMANIA!!!
Jayden
Sydney, NSW, Australia
Thanks, Jayden!

Dec. 5, 2011
Hello again, thanks once again for your objective and balanced information. It is a pleasure to read your site knowing that I'm getting facts, and knowing I can count on them. I saw the mixed review from the Sydney Morning Herald written by Andrew Hornery. I realize that although Dolly Parton is a legend and a genius with her sustained creativity over the decades, she is not flawless and of course her shows strive hard to please a huge cross-section of people, it is impossible for her to ever have a perfect review. Somebody always wants something more. Andrew Hornery was in fact given the label of Australia's worst Journalists, some friends of mine over there drew my attention to it.  It is a medal based on code of ethics etc. I checked it out and he was included in this prize for 'engaging in falsehood to degrade his subject and heighten his virtuoso,' etc. He is a gossip columnist.  His review seems designed to do exactly what he is criticized for. Isabelle Boulay's album has got very good critical reception here in France, I don't know if it will  increase the awareness of Dolly Parton here, but it has had a good beginning. A million thanks again for all your work, I don't know how you manage it, I admire how you do it and I appreciate that people of your journalistic quality are present on the web.
Katy B.
Paris, France
Thanks, Katy. I appreciate your insight on the “reporter” who wrote the review and your kind words about the site. I try my best! :)

Oct. 11, 2011
Hi Duane, my friend and I are going to Dollywood next year and we we're wondering if you knew the day of Dolly's parade in 2012. thank you
Tammie
Berkshire, U.K.
Glad to welcome you to this side of the pond, Tammie. The big parade through Pigeon Forge is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday, May 11. She's also expected to be at the park's 2012 season opening, which should take place Saturday, March 24, with the first launch of the new Wild Eagle roller coaster. She also usually visits for the kick-off to KidsFest, which for 2012 is scheduled to start Friday, June 22, although her participation at that event next year has not been confirmed yet.

Oct. 11, 2011
Hey Duane. Thanks for all the great dolly facts and best up to date info ,,, I have a question about Better Day.... Any info as to sales  did it make it close to silver or gold with hitting  high chat numbers ??? In so many countries ?????  Just curious !!!
Dion
St. Johns, Canada
Thanks, Dion. Unfortunately, the album has not done very well on the charts anywhere except really in Great Britain, and to a much lesser extent, Ireland and Australia (although I'd expect much better numbers Down Under when she tours there in coming weeks). In the U.S. and Canada it wasn't a failure, but it wasn't much of a success either. Sales data on the album in the U.S. have not been released other than to industry insiders with subscriptions to Soundscan (which they don't allow fan-based websites to purchase, so I don't have it), so this is just an educated guess based on chart performance, I can assure you that it's nowhere near any award certification levels here. In the U.S., it moved a little under 11,000 copies its first week and steadily decreased every week thereafter until it was just maybe a few hundred copies sold the week it fell off the country chart after 12 weeks, so based on chart performance the total is probably somewhere between 50,000 and 75,000 copies sold in the U.S., versus the minimum of 500,000 needed for gold status here. Being on an independent label, it likely made a profit with those low numbers, so it's probably not a failure, but if it were a major label release (that have to sell a few hundred thousand copies to make a profit) it would have been a major failure. In Canada, gold is 50,000 copies, but it's probably sold just a few thousand there. In Britain, where it has charted much higher, the levels are 60,000 for silver and 100,000 for gold, so my guess is it's probably getting close to silver there, but that's the only place where sales have likely been anywhere close to getting an award.

May 23, 2011
Hi Duane - I really enjoy your website.  I have a question for you:  Over the past 12 months or so - I see Dolly wearing fingerless gloves - all the time!  What's up with that? 
Bill
Chicago,Ill.
Thanks, Bill. Yes, for about the past nine months, Dolly has worn gloves with the fingers cut out of them at virtually every public appearance or photo shoot or video shoot, and the few times she has not had them on, she has instead worn sleeves that have additional fabric at the end so that they cover her wrists and upper parts of her hands. She has not publicly given her real reason for wearing them. Consequently, although many fans have asked me about them, I can't give an answer with first-hand information. She has even been asked about them on a couple of television interviews, and she joked about them, saying in one she was wearing them because she was cold and in another because she thought they were cute. However, I can relay third-hand information that she was asked about the gloves by fans while filming scenes for her upcoming movie Joyful Noise and told them that last year she had had corrective hand surgery (medical, not cosmetic) and it left a scar that she's covering. Again, I've not heard that directly from Dolly or her management, but I'm told that's the answer she gave privately in Atlanta to those who asked.

May 23, 2011
Was considering on going to Dollywood for this year's KidsFest and I was just wondering what all does she do while she's there usually. Parade, Sing, etc. Thanks. I would also like to add it was awesome finally getting to meet you t Dolly's homecoming parade and that was an awesome speech you gave at the United Way meeting. As always thanks for the great work you do!!
Scott Davis
Shelby, N.C.
Thanks, Scott. Great to have met you as well (good to place a real person with the e-mails!). And for others who are interested in hearing my remarks from our local United Way brunch promoting Dolly's Imagination Library, they start at the 30-minute mark during the ceremony available online here. Dolly's exact schedule for any Dollywood appearance is never released in advance, and it varies from year to year, but I can give you an idea of what she did the past few years, since it's usually at least somewhat similar. Last year, she made one appearance at the Celebrity Theater with that year's headliners, using it for presentation of her Chasing Rainbows teacher award, 25 millionth Imagination Library book, and media Q&A. She also held a park tour. She was just there on Friday that year. The previous year, she had appearances both on Friday and Saturday, including a private appearance (just media and Imagination Library conference participants) at the Heartsongs Theatre and two outside appearances (to honor the Chasing Rainbows and Dolly Scholarship recipients as well as to plant a rose in memory of Dom Deluise), a private Girl Scouts appearance (media and Girl Scout parents only), and park tours each day. The conference takes place every other year, so it happens this year, which suggests her Friday morning appearance will likely be restricted to conference attendees and media. She missed 2008's KidsFest opening due to her tour.

March 29, 2011
Been looking at everything I can about the new concert. Do you think there's a chance Dolly will add Detroit to the tour? Thank you for all you do for the fans!
Kris Los
Clare, Mich.
There's always a chance :) But we won't know for several months, most likely. All dates for the summer portion of the tour have been announced in the U.S. and Europe, but she will also perform several American concerts in October before heading to Australia in November. No notice has been given yet of what cities she may visit in that second portion of the tour.

Nov. 15, 2010
Hi Duanne, Could you please do me a favor and go to this link and help me determin if this is Dolly singing? I think it is, but it's super hard to tell... Thanks so much. Scott http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5kHC39F7to.
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
Yes, that's Dolly. Her first chart single in 1965 on Monument Records was that song. Then in 1982, the label put out The Winning Hand, a quartet album with Willie Nelson, Brenda Lee, and Kris Krisofferson. They all recorded new vocals for their songs, but they took Dolly's 1960s recordings and added these singers to them to make them duets, such as this track with Willie. Dolly did perform each song live in a TV special they put together to promote it, but her vocals on the CD were nearly two decades old when the album came out. It was reissued on cd a few years ago.

Oct. 8, 2010
Hi Duane. As you know tonight is the grand opening to Dollys 9 TO 5 in Charlotte. I am so excited to share that I won a local meet Dolly contest on the radio and my fiance and I get to meet her tonight before the show. Ill be pleased to share the pics tonight when I get back. Thanks. I LOVE YOU DOLLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Scott
Cherryville, N.C.
Congrats, Scott. Would love to see your shots afterward!

June 21, 2010
I will be travelling to Dollywood during September for the first time. Could you please let me know what time DOLLY usually does her park tour as you have stated she will be there for the gospel and harvest fest opening. THANK YOU SO MUCH.
Claudia Zeballos
Sidney, NSW, Australia
Thanks for your message and safe travels, Claudia. Yes, right now I understand Dolly is slated to be at the park on Wednesday, Sept. 29, to open that festival, but whether or not she'll do a park tour has not been announced. (Also, for some others who've asked, I don't know if she'll be there later that weekend or just mid-week.) If she does a park tour, their times vary each time she is there. Generally, they're sometime between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Most of her other park appearances (when she pops in at some of the shows) are unannounced, but generally her first is around 10:30 or 11 a.m., followed by sometimes a second one around 1 or 2 p.m., and sometimes a third one as well. Usually the parade time, though, is either in the show schedule, or announced by the tram driver on your way in that day, or available if you ask a park employee that day. If you look for the group of “regulars” running to get in line at a specific show, though, you can pretty much bet Dolly is likely to be there because they always seem to find out somehow!

May 12, 2010
Duane, I wanted to let you know that I found out today that I get to go to the Oprah Winfrey taping with Dolly on Friday May 14th. I am so excited! I'm writing to you to let you know that I will give full details on what she wears, sings (if any), and talks about for your readers! I was lucky enough to get a group photo with her this past weekend at Dollywood, so now I'm really on cloud 9 over this! Thanks for all your news!
David
Lexington, Ky.
Thanks, David, and congratulations! Looking forward to hearing your report. Still no word on whether Dolly will appear on the live program Friday (the show's guest hasn't been announced) or if they're taping it for later broadcast.

May 12, 2010
Hey Duane, I am wondering do you know anything about when they are filming for the Hallmark Special? I got a brochure in the mail from Dollywood today saying to check the website for information, but the only thing there is when the special will air. Thanks for your help, and everything you do,
Jerail
Sylacauga, Ala.
I've not seen anything official come out about this, but my sources tell me she's to film at the park next Sunday through Tuesday, May 16-18. I've not heard anything about whether any of the filming will be open to the public, but the park is closed on Tuesdays, so that day (which I understand is when Miley and Billy Ray Cyrus are scheduled to be there) may not be open to the public. P.S. I've later learned that the shooting has reportedly been delayed to May 21 and that it is expected to be invitation-only.

May 12, 2010
Hi Duane! First of all, my thoughts and prayers to those in Nashville who have been greatly affected by the floods. I was wondering if there is anything relating to Dolly that  has been lost or damaged, such as her Trinkets store and the people who worked there?
Scott Nassans
San Francisco, Calif.
I've not heard anything in the press specifically detailing about Dolly or her properties, but I reported on the news page Sunday night that she told the Knoxville paper that since she had not been to Nashville since the flooding occurred she didn't know whether her home suffered any damage in neighboring Brentwood. I also reported at that time that I had confirmed no damage to her store directly, although the boots store that operates out of its lower level did flood, and that caused an odor in her store. No word on when it will reopen or if the damage to the lower level will impact hers.

April 23, 2010
Dear Duane. You have a very cool website. I look forward to all the great info you provide. I also have a question. Do you know if Dolly's 1977 classic Here You Come Again is ever gonna be released on CD? The fact that it's not on CD blows my mind since it really launched her into super stardom. Once again, great website!!! Thanks, Allen Haywood
Rector, Ark.
Thanks, Allen. Actually, the album was released on CD in 1998. DCC Compact Discs contracted with RCA parent company BMG to release it for the first time on CD. I know of no plans by Sony (which merged with BMG in 2004 and then took sole ownership of the company in 2008) to re-issue it at this time. Unfortunately, the 1998 run was apparently not that large, because it sold out pretty quickly, and you now find the CDs for sale at outrageously high prices on Amazon's marketplace or eBay.

April 1, 2010
Hi Duane, I wanted to know if "A Real Live Dolly" is available on a CD now or is it just an Mp3 download? Thank you.
Vicki
Wellington, Ill.
It's not available in stores on CD. It is still available on limited edition CD as a free bonus if you order the Dolly boxed set from the record label directly here, though, but it's not being sold on its own and as far as I am aware the label has no immediate plans to issue a general release of it on CD. So the only other option is to buy the digital download, which is available from Amazon and iTunes.

April 1, 2010
I  have heard that Dolly will be touring end of 2010.
The Debstar
Central Coast, New South Wales, Australia
Love the nickname, Deborah! Although Dolly had said a few months ago that she would probably tour toward the end of 2010, more recently she has said that a tour is not planned in the immediate future as she takes time off to write new songs, work on her movie or theatrical musical about her life, promote the national tour of 9 To 5: The Musical and support the 25th anniversary season of Dollywood.

March 18, 2010
Hi Duane It is always great  checking the website everyday you do such a great job I was wondering if you have heard anything more about Dolly's dance album  in the Q&A at the store opening she said she had not been in the studio with nothing new is the dance album still a go I hope it is
Brian Matthews
Endicott, N.Y.
Thanks, Brian. Unfortunately, she hasn't mentioned the dance CD in a little while, and when she has, she's been very vague about when it will come out, so there's no telling!

Feb. 12, 2010
Hi Duane I was wondering if you knew anything more about Dolly filming a new movie according to imdb it has been announced that Dolly is to star in a new movie called "Last Chance Saloon" written by the writer of "Bridget Jones Diary" it would be great!
Brian Matthews
Endicott, N.Y.
Yes, Brian. The film was noted on the news page about a year ago. It's supposed to be about a British couple who win a line dancing competition that includes a trip to the US to see Dollywood, so their plans are to have a Dolly cameo but I've not seen any official confirmation that she has agreed to appear in it.

Feb. 10, 2010
Hi Duane, Do you know where I could find pictures of Dolly and Little Richard when they were in Dollywood I think it was in 1995 or 1996. Thanks for your help!
Jessie
Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
I'm not sure where you might find photos, but if you'd like to place a free listing on the site's Collectors' Connection, you might be contacted by someone who has them to offer.

Feb. 6, 2010
I have heard Dolly Parton is going to tour Australia? Could you confirm?
Joanne Philp
Ipswich, Australia
As far as I am aware, nothing is planned yet. She had said a couple of years ago on her last tour that she had hoped to add some Australian dates if the tour extended into 2009, but they ended it in 2008 instead. She has said she hopes to tour again toward the end of 2010, although nothing has been scheduled yet, so I assume some Aussie shows are possible if the next tour comes together.

Feb. 6, 2010
Hi Duane  I have been visiting your site for over ten years now, just to let u know that your doing a great job, and we are thankful to have you. john in EIRE.
John Langton
Sligo, Ireland
Thanks so much, John!

Feb. 1, 2010
Hi Duane Just to say a great site only just found it. I am a big fan of Dollys just been watching her London concert on tv. If I want to write too Dolly where should I write . Regards
Trisha
Huddersfield, Yorkshire, England
Thanks, Trisha. You may write to Dolly at Dolly Fan Mail, 1708 21st Ave South, #320, Nashville, TN 37212.

Jan. 29, 2010
Hi Duane, thank you for all you do for us Dolly fans. I was wondering if you have any information about Dolly making an appearance at the grand opening of her Trinkets and Treasures store on March 12. I wondered if there was a certain time she will be there. I understand it is a congested area and wondered how they will accommodate the crowd of people. I am 43 and have been a Dolly fan as long as I can remember. I got to meet her when I was nine.  Thanks again.
Vicki
Wellington, Ill.
Thanks, Vicki. Unfortunately, they have not released any further details yet about the time of her appearance or what exactly she'll be doing, so I would hope we'll hear something from her management about that closer to the date.

Jan. 15, 2010
First off Thank you for the many years dedication to Dolly and all of us fans. Dollymania has been the best and hope you can keep the great work up for many years to come.            You have said that Dolly might tour in late 2010 have you heard if Dolly has plans on a new C.D. to hit the road with. You know our Dolly she is a work horse dressed up as a show pony..
Mike
Bristol, Va.
Thanks, Mike. Yes, Dolly has said it is likely she will tour toward the end of 2010, but she has not indicated that it will be in support of any new CD. However, she does have two projects "in the can" that could come out at that time, or before, or after: her dance album (which has been "coming soon" for a couple of years now) and her Glasgow concert (which was originally to be released at the same time as Live From London but was pulled).

Jan. 6, 2010
Hi Duane! Quick question: do you know when Dollywood's Grand Opening Spring 2010 is scheduled? We are working out vacation plans and want to head that way for the weekend! Happy New Year and Thanks for all you do!
James
Cape Coral, Fla.
Thanks, James. The grand opening weekend with Dolly is the park's season opening weekend, March 27. Then she'll return for her annual Pigeon Forge Dolly Parade on May 7. For future reference, all known public appearances are listed on the left-hand side of the site's news page under “In-person Dolly.”

Jan. 6, 2010
Hi Duane, I found this when I was seaching myspace photos I thought everyone one like to see it  here. It's Carl when he was snuck on stage in Kentucky! I've never seen it before but I remember reading the stories about it!
Jessie
Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
Thanks, Jessie. I've never seen the pic before, so I don't know if it's real or fake, but it's certainly fun!

Jan. 1, 2010
Do you know if Dolly plans on touring this year 2010??
Brittney
Redding, Calif.
Dolly has said in recent months that she hopes to tour again in late 2010, but no firm plans have been announced yet.

Dec. 9, 2009
Hi Duane! I would just like to thank you for doing a fantastic job with the web site! I would also like to comment on the Carrie Holiday special last night---the best part was when Dolly was on of course, I think that Carrie and Dolly should cut the duet together (I thought it was the best performance of that song!) What did you think of the performance? Waiting to hear from others about the performance last night and any suggestions that the two of them should cut the song(Dolly could use the money. ha ha..) anyway thanks again Duane for the fantastic job and Happy Holidays! 
Michael Lajoie
Windsor, Ont., Canada
Thanks, Michael. I enjoyed the show, but Carrie is not an actress (and neither are her family members), so I felt all of the sketches fell flat. The music was good, though, although there was very little Christmas music for a "holiday" special. And she and Dolly sounded great together! I'd love to hear them cut a duet because not only would it sound good, but it would be more likely to get radio airplay than anything Dolly could record alone.

Oct. 23, 2009
Hi Duane!  I would like to purchase the 4CD box set and the Real Live Dolly- problem is I live in Canada and that is not available. Would you know how I might be able to order it? Would Ernest Tubb Record store in Nashville or Pigeon Forge be carrying it? Any suggestions would be appreciated!
Steve
Kingston, Ont.
Well, Steve, unfortunately you're out of luck. While the boxed set itself is being released in Canada and should be available from most music stores, the special edition with a bonus CD of A Real Live Dolly is U.S.-only and is NOT being sold in any stores. You must order it exclusively from the label directly here. So it should not be available at Ernest Tubb or elsewhere. Unless someone in the U.S. orders it for you or you find a copy later on eBay, you won't be able to get it, neighbor.

Oct. 14, 2009
When will Dolly be at Dollywood next? Where will C.Underwood special with DOLLY be ,will tickets be sold?
Shirley
Winchester, Tenn.
My understanding, Shirley, is Dolly is not expected to return to Dollywood until the park's 2010 season, although her actual schedule of appearances for next year has yet to be revealed. As for the Carrie Underwood special, word just leaked about the program Monday night, and only three guests have been named at this time, so no details are yet available about where it will be filmed or whether there will be any tickets released to the public.

Oct. 6, 2009
There are rumours flying fast amongst us Aussies and koalas that Dolly is coming 2010. Any chance?
Chris
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
I haven't heard that rumor, Chris. When I last spoke to Dolly in September, I asked about touring (anywhere) next year and she wouldn't give a firm yes or no, but it certainly sounded much closer to a no than a yes.

Sept. 25, 2009
Have you heard any news about the other live release Dolly was planning? I think it was mentioned online months ago that she would also release a DVD/CD from a concert in Glasgow. Thanks for any info!
Jay
Charlotte, N.C.
No word has come on when that concert will be released, Jay. Yes, her Glasgow sets were also recorded by the same people and it was originally announced that both concerts would be released simultaneously this summer in DVD and CD formats. However, that was changed so that only the London shows are coming out this year, and its release was delayed until November due to making advance copies of the release available exclusively to PBS stations to use in their summer fund-raising. However, I would assume that the Glasgow shows will eventually be released. It makes sense that since she performed nearly identical shows in both locations that the most likely reason they only included 15 songs on the London set instead of the full 22 she sang is so that the Glasgow one will probably have the other seven tracks that weren't included on the London one to entice fans to buy both (and if the Glasgow DVD only has 15 tracks as well, then the London one would likewise have seven songs not included on the Glasgow DVD).

Sept. 24, 2009
Hi Duane! I was noticing that the new box set that is coming out Oct 27th (pre-ordered mine!) doesn't contain any Trio tracks. Do you know if Rhino is still planning on a Trio box set? And why wasn't any of those tracks included on this collection? Thanks for all that you do. :) 
Derek Thomas
Lewis Center, Ohio
Hi, Derek. I have not heard anything about plans for the Trio box set in more than two and a half years. Word first leaked about an August 2007 release for it early that year, but no further details developed, so I assume it was shelved. (Same thing with the Edsel Records two-CD set that was to have contained all of her Monument recordings, including the singles and B-sides, some of which have never made it onto CD before. I haven't heard anything on it since it was originally announced early last year for an April release and then disappeared – although I understand the label was having some difficulty gaining clearance for some of the material that had never been released on CD.) As for why no Trio tracks made the new boxed set, probably part of the reason is that they were recorded on a different label. For Sony to use her Monument, RCA and Columbia recordings is easy because they own them. They also gained permission from Goldband and Mercury, which are separate companies, to use her work for them. The Trio recordings were done for Warner Brothers and its Asylum imprint, and licensing across labels can be tricky. On a previous Sony collection, they licensed “To Know Him Is To Love Him,” but this new set was to focus more on Dolly the songwriter, and that wasn't one of her songs, nor did she sing lead on it. Also, I understand that Dolly herself declined to license any of her Sugar Hill and Dolly Records recordings for the set, as she owns all of those masters herself.

Sept. 23, 2009
I just wanted you to know that Sony/Legacy has it posted where you can preorder Dolly's boxset with Real Live CD. I pre-ordered my copy last night
Paul
Beverly, N.J.
Thanks, Paul. Yes, the advance order page is now active. By reserving your copy from the label directly here rather than other stores, you will pay the same $50 price most others are charging but will also get a limited edition exclusive CD of her out-of-print 1970 concert album A Real Live Dolly not available in stores (with two previously unreleased tracks). Get yours here!

Sept. 23, 2009
Hi Duane, I never heard anything about Bette Midler's spring fundraiser in which Dolly was to take a part. I poked around online and found some photos of the event but it doesn't seem that Dolly attended. Any info on that?
Manny
Burlingame, Calif.
They had said they wouldn't know until a few days before the event whether or not Dolly, who was honorary co-chair, was going to be able to attend, and apparently she couldn't.

Sept. 22, 2009
Hello. How are you? Please tell me the first year for the Dollywood dollars. Just trying to complete my collection. Thanks,
Tim Diamond
Grove City, OH
Tim, I believe they started issuing those in 1991. If anyone out there knows differently, tell me!

Sept. 21, 2009
Wanted to let those who made donations to the Nashville Public Television station know that I received my copy of "Dolly In London" yesterday and hopefully theirs will be arriving soon.
Brian
Ashland, Ky.
Thanks, Brian. I've heard from a couple of others who received theirs in the past few days from NPT, and so far everyone who has contacted me has been quite pleased with the product.

Sept. 19, 2009
Just wanted to let you know that today on The Ellen DeGeneres Show she had actress Anna Torv from the series "The Fringe"...at the end of her interview with the actress she said "You can see "The Fringe" on Fox and all of Dolly Paton's jackets! "...Thought that was cute!....Just an FYI
Jimmy Ward
Peoria, Ill.
Thanks, Jimmy. Cute.

Sept. 7, 2009
Hi Duane, we were out driving in Brentwood this evening. I had my camera with me and made two short video clips of what you see going up and down the road Dolly's house is on. Feel free to publish these if you wish. I placed them on YouTube ~ http://www.youtube.com/user/TheRealKentuckyJ ~ titled dollyhouse1 and dollyhouse2. Thanks so much for doing Dollymania!
John Holt
Brentwood, Tenn.
Thanks, John!

Aug. 27, 2009
Duane,  I was able to get tickets to the National Park event next Wednesday!  Are you going to be able to go?  I'm still waiting for the information to arrive.  The lady who called me and told me I had gotten tickets said they would be sending out information about when and where to meet, what we can and cannot bring, etc.  I was pretty excited; I wonder what it's going to be like!  Hope you are doing well, and, as always, thanks SO MUCH for the site and all the information you provide us with.  I read every night!  In fact, it's thanks to you that I got the tickets, because I saw the story on my local news, and their website directed me to the GSMNP website, which said nothing about how to get the tickets.  Then, I checked Dollymania, and, of course, all the details were there.  So, I really appreciate it.  Thanks again! 
Michael
Asheville, N.C.
Hi, Michael. So glad the site was able to connect you with the tickets for the event! Yes, I am planning to attend to cover it for the website as part of the media pool, so I should be there! The information for where the press gets on the bus just went out today, so I'd expect the information for ticketholders shouldn't be too far behind!

Aug. 24, 2009
http://www.newnownext.com............Check this out  I liked the “I'm seriously an orthodox Partonite and need to go to Dolly church pronto” part.
Tim Diamond
Columbus, Ohio
Thanks, Tim. Hilarious!

Aug. 11, 2009
I'd love to hear Dolly sing Touch Your Woman now. It would be awesome. It was good then and raw, I'd love to hear her sing it now.
Dale
Black River Falls, Wisc.
Thanks, Dale. I'd love to hear her do it, too – I bet she'd put a little R&B feel into it like she did with “Just Because I'm A Woman” a few years back. Have you ever heard Margie Joespeh's 1972 cover of “Touch Your Woman”? Now that's awesome! You may get it here, here, here or here.

Aug. 10, 2009
Duane, I just thought I'd let you and all the Dolly fans know, well it's not for certain but Dolly may be planning to tour in 2010, I talked to some people.
Crystal
Denver, Colo.
Thanks, Crystal. A 2010 tour has been speculated about a lot throughout this year, and we'll just have to wait and see if a tour materializes. She had originally planned for her “Backwoods Barbie World Tour” to stretch into 2009 but decided before year's end to conclude it in 2008 and take 2009 off from touring, so it wouldn't be surprising if she returns to the road next year.

Aug. 8, 2009
Hi Duane, You are doing a great job keeping the Dolly fans over in England updated with lots and lots of news on our favourite lady.  I just wanted to say that I orderd  9 to 5 Musical cd before going on holiday and have now returned to play it and what an amazing talented lady Dolly really is. I know she is good in everything she has done but this is a work of art and as a fan over here I can't wait to see if she will eventually bring the  Musical to the UK.  Once again thanks for all your hard work keeping us Dolly fans informed.
Sylvia Smith
West Midlands, England   
Thanks, Sylvia. As for the show coming to the U.K., that was their original plan. However, since it was not very successful on Broadway, I don't know if they'll still bring it across the pond or not. We'll have to wait and see. I haven't heard any talk since they announced its New York closure about whether that will be possible or not.

Aug. 7, 2009
Wait.... so if Dolly says she has to call you to find out what she's doing next (I realize it's a joke but still) does that mean you ever ACTUALLY get phone calls from Dolly???? Does she have your phone number??? And finally, what's it like being a celebrity among Dolly fans?
Michelle
Tampa, Fla.
I guess you're referring to the quote from Dolly referenced in my reply to Steve's letter of July 31 below :) Well, yes, Dolly was joking, and, no, she has never called me personally. Several members of her staff do have my phone number and they've called me a few times over the years about various things, but never Dolly herself. As for being a so-called "celebrity" in Dolly fan culture, I have to admit that sometimes it's kind of nice to be at Dollywood and get recognized by complete strangers who come up and say hello and thank me for operating the site -- but on the flip side of that you can never please everybody, so I've also had plenty of people e-mail and tell me off when there's something on the site they don't like, too! Actually, though, this “celebrity” experience greatly helped me to handle a similar status with the job I started a little over year and a half ago. Where I live, I hold what is probably the third or fourth most important/most high profile non-elected position in the city. It requires that I speak at public events at least once a week, host a bi-weekly local television interview program, serve on dozens of committees throughout the city, and take sometimes very public and sometimes behind-the-scenes leadership on many projects with sizeable impacts on peoples' daily lives. Because of this role, I get recognized and approached by complete strangers on the street and discussed in the local media -- often with praise and sometimes with criticism -- but having experienced those same things among Dolly fans for the past several years served as a great preparation for dealing with them in this role.

Aug. 7, 2009
Hello once more. Thanks for the many hours you dedicate to your site.  I have heard Dolly state that New Harvest First Gathering is the one that meant the most to her due to the fact she was in control for the first time. On that cover as you know she is in the passenger side of an old truck. Now that Dolly is  in FULL control she is sitting in the driver's seat of an old truck. Have you heard anything about it?
Mike
Bristol, Va.
Thanks, Mike. You know, I don't think I've heard anyone make that observation or connection yet, but it's correct. On the New Harvest, First Gathering cover she is in the passenger's seat of an old truck, and in some of the artwork associated with Backwoods Barbie (a shot in the liner notes of the original release and on the cover of the “Collector's Edition” re-issue) she is sitting in the driver's seat of an old truck. Keen eye, Mike!

Aug. 1, 2009
Please post this befor midnight! It's my 9to5 contest video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8w4mwFNimwo, Most of it is filmed in Gothenburg :)
Diana
Halmstad, Sweden
There you go!

July 31, 2009
Hi Duane ! I was checking in and getting my daily update ! I was wondering if Dolly or her people have ever commented to you on your site. It continues to be an outstanding professional  fan website. I was wondering also if Dolly had plans to purchase the Porter and Dolly duets and re-record them with any of the younger popular current day male artists.
Steve
Kingston, Ont., Canada
Thanks, Steve. Yes, Dolly and her staff have made many comments about the site over the years. For about a five year period (after the site had been established a few years and Dolly still didn't have an official website), her staff used Dollymania.net as her "official unofficial" site and multiple times when she wanted to release a statement to her fans, it was done through Dollymania.net, although now they use her Dolly Records website for that purpose (DollyPartonMusic.net). At that time, even the PR staff at her then-record label used to direct reporters to Dollymania.net, saying its information was more up-to-date and accurate than their own publicity materials. And Dolly has made comments a few times herself. Back in 2005, when I asked her a question at a press event and mentioned the site, she said: "That's my website! He talks all about me. He knows stuff about me before I know it, and that's no joke." About a year later at another press event, she said: "I want to thank you right in public for being so good to me. I'm sure anybody wants to know anything about me you can ask Duane. I have to call him to see what I'm gonna do next!" As for her duets with Porter, she wouldn't have to "purchase" anything. You can record any song you want to as long as you pay songwriting royalties to the composer, and actually she wrote most of their duets herself, so she'd only be paying herself on those :) Still, I doubt we'll see many of them re-recorded. Every once in a while she'll re-do an old one -- it stands out to me that two Porter and Dolly numbers, "Making Plans" and "The Pain Of Loving You," made the first Trio album, and she did a solo version of "Poor Folks Town" on 9 To 5 And Odd Jobs -- but she usually prefers to record new songs she's written rather than ones she's done already.

July 31, 2009
please please please post my video or my link to my video on your news page before tomarrow night! i really worked hard and would love to win the contest!  thanks http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJ3AZa43clk
Crystal
Denver, Colo.
Glad to do it, Crystal! For those unaware, Dolly's record label website is running a contest for a fan-made music video for “9 To 5.” The ones with the most views on YouTube will win some great prizes!

July 29, 2009
Is Dolly coming to Australia in 2009?
Deanne
Birchip, Victoria, Australia
No, Deanne. She has taken 2009 off from touring, so she won't be there this year. She has not indicated whether or not she plans to tour in 2010, so keep your fingers crossed.

July 28, 2009
Hi Duane: I just returned from the Smokies and we picked up a copy of  Dolly's ShaKonOHey at the Gatlinburg Welcome Centre. We played while taking a leisurely drive through the back roads in and around Dollywood. This CD truly captures the feeling of being in the Smokies. The tracks on the CD are just as good if not better than some of Dolly's commercial releases. I really encourage people to get a copy of the CD.  I hope she will put some of these songs into her concerts. There are at least three that are truly great!  Thanks again for a great site.
Steve
Kingston, Ont., Canada
Thanks, Steve. It is a great CD. For those that haven't gotten one yet, all proceeds benefit the Friends of the Smokies nonprofit organization, and it's available online here.

July 28, 2009
Everyone forgot Carl's (Dolly's Husband) birthday! It was July 20. He was 67 . Happy Late Birthday Carl!!
Jessie
Lebanon, Va.
Yes, happy belated birthday, Carl! Thanks for reminding us, Jessica.

July 21, 2009
Congrats on the 3 million milestone!  I begin each day (since the launch of Dollymania) with a visit to catch up on all the latest Dolly news.  Thanks for the superior dedication to an incredible website.  Your hard work is very much appreciated!
Bix Bechtler
Lexington, S.C.
Thanks, much, Bix!

July 21, 2009
I was just looking at the fan photos where they got to meet Dolly and I just started crying. Dolly is truly one of the most kind and sincere celebrities that I think I have.
Melanie
Irvine, Calif.
Thanks, Melanie. She's certainly a treat to meet. Every fan I know who has had that opportunity has considered it one of the most special moments of their lives.

July 21, 2009
http://www.liverpoolempire.org.uk/prod-productions_details.asp?pid=884&VenueID=111    Hi Duane just thought the UK Dolly fans may wish to know about this Dolly event! 
Love,
Sarah
Stockton-on-Tees, Cleveland, U.K.
Thanks, Sarah. Unlike here in the U.S., there are several touring Dolly tribute acts in the U.K. Bet they're a blast!

July 21, 2009
How many albums has dolly today sold? now 1964 -2009
Enrico Bertz
Berlin, Germany
Combining worldwide sales of albums and singles, she has sold in excess of 100 million records, tapes, and CDs. I have not seen anywhere that breaks that out between her album sales and singles sales, but if I were to take an educated guess, I'd say it's probably in the neighborhood of 70-80 million albums and 20-30 million singles.

July 21, 2009
Hey! Do you know if Dolly is planning a tour anytime soon. I would love to see her again. Thanks!
Brittney
Redding, Calif.
She took off 2009 from touring and has yet to announce what her plans for 2010 are.

July 18, 2009
Hey! First of all, love your page, keep up the good work! And well I just found on twitter that these two are diggin' Dolly, (not sure if it's anything to put under the news but I found it cute :) : Kellie Pickler (twitter.com/therealpickler) tweeted yesterday "Wtaching "The Best Little Whorehous in TX"-I Love Dolly and Taylor Swift (twitter.com/taylorswift13) replied: "I'm watching it too. 3 buses over!!" so well looks like the country princesses are diggin' the country queen! take care
Naomi
Stockholm, Sweden
Thanks, Naomi!

July 16, 2009
Duane, Is there any word on the release of the Dolly IPOD that you mentioned a few months back and that some fans received at the CMTFest?  I am wanting to get an IPOD but also wanting to wait for hers.  Any idea of a release date to the public?
Jason E. Ebey
Minden, La.
No, Jason. As far as I know, there are no plans to publicly release for sale the Dolly iPod, a photo of which was “leaked” a few months back to Dollymania and fan site Dolly On-Line. It was apparently created solely as a promotional piece for use in contests and give-a-ways by Dolly's management.

July 15, 2009
Hey Duane! Just Wanted To Stop And Say Hey! I Wanted To Thank You For All You Do And All Your Info.! Everyone Who Asks Me ANYTHING! About Dolly I Tell Them To Ask You Or Go To Dollymania.net ! well have a great day and hope to see you at the September 2 Dolly appearance at The National Park! 
Aaron
Westminster, S.C.
Thanks, Aaron. So glad you're enjoying the site's offerings! And hopefully we'll see Dolly in September. Although her appearance at the re-dedication ceremony for the 75th anniversary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has not been officially announced (National Park Service officials say she isn't confirmed yet), she told the press at Dollywood last month that she would be participating in the event this fall since she is serving as the park's international ambassador for the anniversary. I hope to be there covering it. I haven't heard any news on whether there will be any general public seating available (the area where the ceremony will be held is quite small, so I doubt it, and if the president comes -- he's been invited -- I'm sure security would be quite tight).

July 2, 2009
Hi Duane, I wanted to let everyone know that I just customized a Dolly Parton toolbar that anyone can download for free. I have included links to official Dolly sites, Dollymania, fans sites, shopping links to Dolly items, Dolly's social network pages and resource sites. Here is the link to the download page - http://DollyPartonMusic.OurToolbar.com/. I hope Dolly fans everywhere will find this toolbar useful. I have also included a link to my own website brandnamebargains.biz under the shopping menu for anyone to visit at their own leisure. Please let your readers know about this new toolbar. Thanks!
Scott Nassans
San Francisco, Calif.
There ya go, Scott!

June 26, 2009
Hey Duane, Not sure if you know yet, but an artist by the name of Adam Fisher whose album is being produced by Stella, is gonna have a song on his cd that Dolly wrote called "I Can't Be True" It's sure to be great. Just wanted to pass it along, here's a link :) http://www.examiner.com/x-5967-Nashville-Entertainment-Examiner~y2009m6d24-Adam-Fisher-showcase-set-for-The-Rutledge-today-produced-by-singersongwriter-Stella-Parton.
Michelle
Tampa, Fla.
Thanks, Michelle! I'll pass it along!

June 24, 2009
Hi Duane. I just had to send you a message thanking you for this website. I have been a fan of Dolly's over 30 years. I remember when I used to buy any tabloid with a picture of her, and scour newsstands for the slightest mention of her. The links to interviews, articles, photos, videos, as well as the original content that you provide is just unbelievable, and makes it so easy to see what must be practically everything that is out there about her. I used to think I was her biggest fan, but after seeing your site and all that you do, I realize I am just another one of the thousands adoring fans that love her. Her music, messages, and humour have meant a lot in my life, and I just can't tell you how much I look forward to visiting your website everyday to see the updates. I managed to make it to Dollywood last year when she was there, which I don't think would have happened had I not learned about her schedule from your site. Thanks again & God Bless you & Dolly.
Stephen Bobo
Canfield, Ont., Canada
Why, thank you so much, Stephen. I really appreciate your kind words. I love to hear from readers of the site to find out what they think about it, as your enjoyment makes the effort that goes into it worthwhile. And when the readers are from outside the U.S., it's even more exciting to hear from them :)

June 11, 2009
Hey!  Just wanted to say I went to Dollywood on Monday an rode on the SkyZip and it was awesome!!  If you have the chance you should check it out. Way to go Dollywood!!  And ShaKonHey was fantastic, that was a great show, the singers are awesome!  I am heading to Nashville Sunday in hopes of getting to meet Dolly Monday =).
Michelle
Saltville, Va.
You're braver than I! I think I'm probably too chicken to try out the ride this weekend, although I did ask park staff whether if you ride the first leg (since it's a multiple-line zip-line) and decide it's not for you if you can get off at the first station, and they assured me you can. So maybe I'll give it a shot. Have fun in Nashville!

June 2, 2009
I quoted Dolly at a commencement speech!  http://www.shawanoleader.com/articles/2009/06/01/news/news2.txt.
Dan
Wittenberg, Wisc.
Thanks for sharing, Dan. Her words of wisdom often translate well to commencements. My little sister in her valedictory address a few years ago quoted Dolly's "If you want the rainbow, you've got to put up with the rain."

June 2, 2009
Hi Duane. I am planning on attending the cd/book signing Dolly is having at Nashville. CMT mentioned having a voucher in order to get in the signing. Do you know how many they will be giving. Even a rough guess will be appreciated. Were you planning on attending? Thanks for your time and the great job on the site.
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
Those rules were just issued today (available here), and there are no further details available. I think at previous signings at other stores in the past, she's been there at least a couple of hours and has been able to do no more than 200-300 autographs, so my guess is this likely what they'll do there as well. Right now, I'm not planning to attend :( I will be at Dollywood the Friday before that, though, to cover her appearances there.

May 25, 2009
I bought the CD (SHA-KON-O-HEY) directly from USA because we do not have it in France. I listened to this CD several times, I don't understand the words but I found the magnificent melodies and the voice, it is the big art. Congratulations Dolly. Dolly, you are a legend and you will remain a legend.
Ali
Giraumont, France
Thanks, Ali, for sharing your thoughts. The CD, on sale as a fund-raiser for the Friends of the Smokies featuring Dolly performing the eight songs she wrote for the Dollywood musical, is available here.

May 22, 2009
Hi Duane, thanks for always sharing your photos of Dolly. Living in Wisconsin we don't  see her much around here; she's too busy. I just want to say wow she looks great in her native beaded outfit and is a knockout in the silver black outfit. She could pass for 30s in that dress!!!! Thanks again for all the time you spend on your site we are grateful!!!!!
Dale
Black River Falls, Wisc.
Thanks, Dale. You're too kind. :)

May 19, 2009
Hey Duane! Hope all is well with you! I wanted to know if you could let all the fans know that I'm selling DVD's of Dolly's Commencement she did at the University of Tennessee. The DVD's are great quality with interactive menus and are 55 min long. Its of the same quality as UT's website of it. They can search Dolly Parton UT on Ebay to find my listings, and I will have many more listed in the next few days. Thanks for all you do!!
David
Lexington, Ky.
Thanks for letting everyone know, David.

May 13, 2009
I was in Dollywood on Saturday and saw Dolly 4, yes 4 different times!!!! It was amazing , e waited in line to see her at the first Shakonohey show which I saw you stand up and ask Dolly your question  great to see you by the way and then me and my cousin happened to be walking by the Backstage Restaurant and there were security surrounding the place and Dolly came out the side and stopped and talked a couple of seconds!!!  I also saw her leaving a restaurant near the Heartsong theater and then of course I saw her in the park parade  thankful it didn't rain it out    Did I see Judy Ogle get in the vehicle with Dolly too???  Thanks for taking all the pictures and stuff I just cant tell you how nice it is that someone takes their time to do that    Thanks a bunch!!!
Cody
Waynesville, N.C.
Thanks, Cody. Glad you had so many “Dolly moments” at the park this weekend. And, yes, you might have seen Judy in the van with Dolly on her way to or from various events. The two often travel together.

May 13, 2009
i was wondering do u have a myspace page
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
Yes, I do, Scott. It's at http://www.myspace.com/dollymania.

May 13, 2009
Hello to all the friends of Dolly: I find shameful that people sell to exorbitant prices the copies of DVD that they filmed at Dollywood. For me they are not fans of Dolly but profiteers. They could sell them honestly, especially to those who love this very big artist. Sorry for my poor English
Ali
Giraumont, France
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Ali. Yes, some of the fans who make the trip do have some high prices.

May 12, 2009
Hello Duane, Well FINALLY a dream has come true..... I got to see Dolly in person. I was at the homecoming parade and boy was it awesome. I stood at her float and impatiently waited for her to arrive. Once I seen her I can't explain the feeling that ran through my body it was nothing short of amazing. I ran with her float from the start all the way to the end. Got her to even say she loved me WOW.... It was all thanks to my girlfriend Tammy. I looked for you but never did spot you maybe next. Thanks for all your hard work!!!
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
Glad you had such a great time, Scott!

May 11, 2009
Hi, this is Mattie. I sat beside you at SHA-KON-O-HEY Saturday night! It was truly a pleasure to meet you, I always look for you anytime I'm going to see Dolly! I was really just writting to say thank you so much for keeping us all so well informed. I hope you continue, and remember when ever your in town come by my shop and say hello!  see ya soon! 
Mattie Corn
Gatlinburg, Tenn.
Great to have met you, too, Mattie. It was a great show! Hope to see you again next time I'm in the area.

May 11, 2009
The parade was great I got up the nerve to tell Dolly "I Love You!!!" She looked at me and waved and said "Thank You I Love You Too." I was so happy not to mention in shock for 45 minutes HAHAHA.
Jessie
Lebanon, Va.
Thanks for sharing, Jessie. So glad you got a “Dolly Moment.”

May 7, 2009
Hi Duane hope all is well with you. I live in the southern parts on NC and have been catching all the rain coming from TN over the last few days and is still plenty to come. I was wondering is there a rain date announced for Dolly's homecoming parade Friday in case it rains. Doing a great job thanks
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
Thanks, Scott. Due to Dolly's hectic schedule, there's never a rain date scheduled for her parade. In past years when it's rained they've delayed the parade briefly to see if it will stop long enough to run the parade and they've put an umbrella over her to keep her dry if it doesn't stop or in case it picks back up again. They moved the parade date back a month this year to try and get better weather, since it's often been cold and wet when the parade was held in April each year. The current Pigeon Forge forecast for 6 p.m. Friday, though, is a high of 77 degrees and a 40 percent chance of scattered thunderstorms, so that's a 60 percent chance it will be dry! Saturday, when she is expected to do a park tour if it's not raining, has another 40 percent chance of scattered thunderstorms.

May 7, 2009
Could you tell me if there was a DVD released from Dolly's tour in England last year. Many thanks. P.S. Keep up the great work keeping us all informed with the latest Dolly news.
Louise Williams
Telford, Shropshire, England
Thanks, Louise. Yes, Dolly is going to release two live DVDs and two live CDs from last year's European tour: one from London and one from Glasgow. Unfortunately, neither is out yet. She has said publicly that the concerts would be released in June 2009, but no retailers have received any information on them yet as far as I know, and they usually would have received something weeks ago if a product is coming out in one month. So we may have to wait a while longer. No new release date has been announced, yet, so it could be possible that they'll still get them out in June.

April 28, 2009
Hi Duane, I have today listed my entire dolly collection on ebay the link to the pinball is http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&item=220404109420  if you could pot this for me and let everyone know i would be very thankful, there has been 56 items listed today and many many more to come over the next few days, a lot wih a starting price of 99p. thanks,
Donna
England, U.K.
Glad to pass it along, Donna.

April 24, 2009
I've heard that Dolly is planning on releasing a DVD of her Backwoods Barbie concert in London and wondered if you had heard any details.  Thanks for any information you can give. Can't Wait!!!
Shawn Branham
Shady Shores, Texas
Yes, Dolly is planning two live DVDs and two live CDs: one DVD and one CD from last year's concerts in London and one DVD and one CD from last year's concerts in Glasgow, Scotland. Although the exact release date has not been announced, Dolly has said both are supposed to come out sometime in June. They will also both be available on BluRay.

April 22, 2009
Hey do I need tickets in order to see SHA-KON-O-HEY at Dollywood on May 9'th?
Brooksie
Saluda, S.C.
Yes, the Saturday evening show that Dolly will host is ticketed-only, so you do have to buy a ticket to attend that one. It's a fund-raiser for the Friends of the Smokies, and seats, at $75 each, are available here. If you wait until Sunday (or any other day after Saturday), each performance of the show is free -- it's just that Dolly won't be at any of those.

April 22, 2009
Hi Duane. I was just curious if you were planning to attend Dolly's homecoming parade? i would love to have a chance to meet you!
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
Yes, I'll be covering the May 8 parade. They usually let me up there next to the float to take pictures of Dolly before she gets on. And I'll be in the park that Saturday and at the Sha-Kon-O-Hey! premiere Saturday night, too. If you see me, please feel free to come up and say hi. I love to meet readers of the site and always meet several new ones whenever I visit the park.

April 20, 2009
Hi Duane, Just wanted to say Hi and thanks for all of the news on Dolly your site is the best.  Just wanted to say I have been in New York for a week and saw the show today at 2 it was wonderful! Anyways I went out to dinner and wanted to take some pictures of the billboards at the theater when I noticed a limo pulled up in the middle of the sidewalk between the theater entrance. I sat and waited and Dolly came out and got into her limo she waved at the few people standing there. So I walked to the side street where she waved at me. She is soo sweet just wanted to share my experience. Though I didn't get very good pictures, I got her hair, will have to look.....lol.....  Thanks for all the news!
Nick
Prince George, Va.
Thanks for sharing your experience from Saturday on Broadway!

April 20, 2009
Where do I get Dolly tickets to her premiere on May 9th at Dollywood. My little girl Savannah loves her. Savannah is 7 years old.
Cheri Cloer
Bryson City, N.C.
Hopefully Savannah will get to see her. Tickets for the premiere, which Dolly will host, are $75 each and are available from the Friends of the Smokies website here. Unfortunately, the VIP seats that include a group photo with Dolly sold out in less than 48 hours after they went on sale and were noted on this site as being available, but the regular seats for the show are still available.

April 17, 2009
Hi Duane, I was wondering if you knew if the May 9th showing of Sha kon o hey is going to have any other price tickets. I already have a season pass so I don't need the park admission. I mean 75.00 is a good deal if you don't have a season pass but what about those of us who do? Also do you know what "date" in May the zip line is going to open? On the DW website it just states May and that you have to purchase a reserved ticket. Any idea where you get that ticket in advance? Sorry for so many questions, but you answer them so well =)
Michelle
Saltville, Va.
No, Michelle, the $75 tickets are all that are available. It is a fund-raiser and for a good cause, though. As for the zip-line, a park spokesperson informed me that it is expected to open in mid-May, barring any construction delays between now and then. Tickets will be sold at the ride's kiosk but they are also working on setting up an online scheduling process for visitors. I also asked if someone gets up there and is a little too scared to continue could they get off at the end of the first leg of the ride instead of continuing through all of its stages and was assured that if it's too much for you that you can exit from any of the towers along the way :)

April 17, 2009
I was just curious as to what time Dolly's homecoming parade starts.
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
The parade always begins at 6 p.m. and this year's, being held on May 8, will continue that tradition.

April 16, 2009
My mom and my sisters and I saw 9 to 5 the Musical this past Saturday afternoon.  Fabulous show -- that Dolly Parton is a genius (and the others involved with the show are no slouches).  Although crafting the songs certainly took effort, Dolly somehow manages to make it look easy to find just the write words and music to communicate the characters' feelings and to move the plot along.  To me, it seemed like Dolly really got in the characters' heads, so to speak, with some songs, like "Heart to Hart" and "Get Out and Stay Out."  Others, like "Shine Like the Sun" and "Backwoods Barbie," served the plot, but also sounded like classic Dolly talking to the audience.  Speaking of classic Dolly, it was interesting to see that some of her famous lines made the script.  For instance,  the Doralee character said "there's a brain under this hair . . ." and "there's already been enough boobs in the White House."  Overall, we found 9 to 5 the Musical a very entertaining and high energy show with great performances by all.  A plus for us -- they were taping the show -- for what purpose, I don't know (maybe you do) -- so the view from the seats we purchased in the back of the orchestra was obstructed and they bumped us up to house seats starting from the aisle in Row D on the right side of the theater.  We had a great view of the stage.  A great view of the audience, too, but we had no Dolly or Dolly-related sightings.  Speaking of the audience, everybody seemed to be having a great time.  There was lots of laughter and applause, even from the husbands who appeared at first glance to have been dragged to the theater.  We highly recommend this show!
Toni
Upper Darby, Pa.
Thanks for sharing your experience, Toni. Glad the show was so great! I can't wait to make it over there to see it myself, hopefully sometime soon.

April 15, 2009
I'm going to Dollywood this week and I was wondering if I can buy the Sha Kon o Hey cd now or do I have to wait until May when the show starts??
Cody
Waynesville, N.C.
Have fun at the park, Cody! Yes, the CD is available. It was released in February and is for sale at Dollywood, Dolly's Dixie Stampede, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor's Center and Friends of the Smokies website.

April 14, 2009
Hi Duane a little information from us over the pond. My little chapter of the Imagination Library has begun in the Catchment area of my school. The Fernwood Imagination Library will start registering children just as soon as we get back from our 100 mile sponsored walk to coincide with the opening of this chapter.  Should anybody be in the area of the Grand Union canal pop along and see us. We will be off at first light on Tuesday14th  April and are hoping to raise £1000 for the  library. I will attempt to e-mail you a picture.
Cheryl Mitchell and Sarah Laverick
Nottingham, England
Thanks, Cheryl and Sarah. Best wishes for a successful ride on Tuesday. Check out a photo of them here!

April 14, 2009
Hey Duane,  Do you know if there is going to be any other shows that Dolly will be in on May 9th?  We're working people and we can't afford $1,200 or $75 tickets to the 7 pm show.  I'm kind of upset.  It seems like everything where you can see Dolly in the park is either for special guest or you have to pay a lot.  I want to see her too.  They are forgetting about her true fans that show up to stand in line to see her rain or shine.  I just had to vent.  Thanks for listening.  Will she have a parade inside the park, too if it doesn't rain?
Whitney White
Cleveland, Tenn.
They never announce much of her schedule in advance, so I can't be certain, but in the past, she's always made at least one or two public appearances the day of her "homecoming" at the park in addition to her big Pigeon Forge parade, so my guess is she'll probably do that again this year. Last year during her “homecoming” weekend she did a total of eight appearances: five completely open to the public and free, two for invited guests/media and one for invited guests only, so that's far from being only for special guests or fees. And both of her appearances at the season pass preview day last month were completely open to all season passholders with no other invited guests. I don't know what all is on tap for next month, but we do know you'll get to at least see her in her Pigeon Forge parade May 8. As for the May 9 Sha-Kon-O-Hey! premiere being ticketed, it's a fund-raiser for the Friends of the Smokies, so it's no different than when she's done her fund-raiser concerts for the Dollywood Foundation. If you wanted to attend, you've always had to buy a separate ticket. Although this won't be a Dolly "concert," it's set up the same way.

April 14, 2009
Was in SC today and saw one of the pink rockers still for sale at the Cracker Barrel in Gaffney, SC. It was very cute!
Tim
Hagerstown, Md.
Thanks, Tim. Yep, there are still a handful of them around the country at various stores. They had several left for sale in Pigeon Forge when Dolly was there for the opening of Dollywood, but they may be gone now :) Cracker Barrel says they sold close to 1,000 of the 1,350 chairs in the first two weeks they were available, and I would expect they sold a good number more over the third week as well, but there are probably a couple hundred still floating around out there somewhere!

April 14, 2009
Hi Duane, I am so excited to have gone to TN this past weekend of mine and my girlfriend's anniversary... We went Dolly sighting lol. I took some pictures of the Dolly statue outside the courthouse which was beautiful. Then we went on down to Gatlinburg and went into the star cars museum and saw her Caddy. I love the set up. It was almost as wonderful as meeting her since how I have not had that privilege yet. We tried to find her childhood home but no luck on that one. Just curious do you know who lives there now if anyone and if you can see it......  Thanks for all your hard work on the site and being so devoted.
Scott
Shelby, N.C.
Thanks for sharing, Scott. Congratulations on your anniversary and glad you had such a blast! As for her childhood home, she bought the property several years ago and uses it as her mountain retreat, so it's certainly not open for public visitors to pop in :)

April 13, 2009
I was wondering if anyone out there has a "Dolly" lanyard for sale?  I have not been able to get to Dollywood the last couple of years and would really like to have one of these....So, if anyone has an extra one please let me know...would love to buy it!
James Ward
Peoria, Ill.
Glad to pass along your request, James.

April 11, 2009
Friends of the Smokies is proud to announce a wonderful premiere performance by Dolly at DP's Celebrity Theatre on Saturday, May 9, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets for the "Sha-Kon-O-Hey! Land of Blue Smoke" premiere with Dolly, please visit http://www.friendsofthesmokies.org/.
Holly Scott Burcham
Kodak, Tenn.
Thanks for alerting Dolly's fans, Holly. I'm sure it will be an excellent evening!

April 10, 2009
Hi Duane. Thank you so very much for putting the dolly 60 minutes interview on line it was absolutely wonderful and good to see it in Australia where it would not be seen on tv. A beautiful interview and very emotional when they showed her parent and family from the original Dolly show. I don't think I've ever seen her brought to tears in an interview before and I was crying at the same time.  I wonder weather this show and others from the original dolly show will ever be released on dvd. We were lucky last year to have some released but it would be nice to have some more.  Thanks again for a wonderful site.  Kind Regards a long time dolly fan from Australia
Ian Peart
Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
Glad to pass it along, Ian, and glad you enjoyed it. That was a very moving moment in the interview. And I'd love to have the entire series released, but I guess the first DVD set (Dolly Parton & Friends from 2007) didn't sell enough to convince the company that owns the rights to the show to do it, since they've not announced any plans to release any additional episodes. I understand their original plan was to release more episodes in the boxed set than they did (perhaps even the entire series), then the project got delayed for several years and scaled back to just the six episodes that came out.

April 7, 2009
Perhaps you could use your influence to convince Dolly to go to Dollywood during the Festival of Lights and do a concert of her Christmas songs. I've never known her to do a Christmas concert. Thanks,
Carl
Augusta. Ga.
Thanks for your letter, Carl. I don't think I have any influence to bring to bear on the situation, but I'm flattered that you think I do. Unfortunately, though, Dolly told me when I saw her in D.C. in February that she is not planning to do any concerts at Dollywood this year, so unless she changes her mind we'll have to wait and see if she does any next year. She has done Christmas shows before, however. When she moved her annual fundraising concerts at the park to the winter in 2001, she did a full Christmas show. In 2002, it was a regular concert (used for the taping of her live CD/DVD). Then in 2003, she compromised and did the first half as a regular concert and the second half as a holiday show. Her concert moved to the fall in 2004, so no Christmas tunes were to be had that year :)

April 7, 2009
Hey Duane Thank you soo much for posting the "60 Minutes" interview. Gee that was soo heart touching when ya see the part where Dolly gets surprised with the video of her family being on the her "Dolly Show" and where she starts to cry! Gee I couldn't help myself but to cry with her. Thanks again for posting and Thank you for you hard work on this site keeping us non USA fans update i.e with programs that we can't watch over here in the UK  ;)) .x.
Amanda Baxter
Edinburgh, Scotland
Thanks, Amanda. Glad to pass the link along – anyone who missed it can watch here – and it was a very moving moment when she started to weep watching her mom and dad.

April 1, 2009
Hi Duane, As always thanks for your dedication and an awesome Dolly site.  I visit daily (smile).  I have a questions about Dolly's Annual Homecoming Parade.  Where is the best location to view the parade?  I imagine parking is very limited, are there any issues with parking in any of the store lots along the parkway.  I know you have probably answered these questions before, so I really appreciate any helpful hints you can provide.  This will be my first Dolly Homecoming parade....I am pretty excited.  Thanks again,
Lemar
New Cumberland, Pa.
It's no trouble, Lamar. The parade runs from traffic light 7 (near the Police Museum) to traffic light 3 (where you turn up to drive toward the outlet malls on Teaster), and they put up big "Parade Begins Here" and "Parade Ends Here" signs to show you where that is. The best place to see her is at the beginning because that's where she stands in front of the float for photos for the media, then gets on the float, and usually talks to the crowd over a microphone for a few minutes while they're waiting to get the parade started. So you see her the longest period of time there. From then on, the parade moves pretty quickly, so a great number of fans run for a distance, stop to let her float catch up, take a few pictures, then run some more to get ahead of it again, repeating this over and over until she gets off the float up on Teaster in front of the outlet mall and drives off in her van. As for parking, if you park along the Parkway, it will be difficult to get out because the parade is just so long :) A lot of people park in the outlet mall lot at the end of the parade route and then walk down to the start – that way they're at their cars after they've run the distance of the parade!

March 30, 2009
I was shocked to see Dolly on a news show the other day.  She seemed to shake and looked to me as if she had Parkinson's or some other health problem.  Is she okay?  I did not find her health mentioned in your FAQs.  Thank you!
Mary
Sunland, Calif.
Thanks for writing, Mary. I saw several of Dolly's interviews over the past couple of weeks, but not all of them because not all of the programs were announced in advance and not all were shown on my cable system :) But she didn't appear to be shaking in any of the ones I did see. Also, I just saw her in person twice on Friday, and she wasn't shaking at either of those appearances. The reason there's no reference to her health on the Frequently Asked Questions section is because I am not aware of any health problems she is presently facing. About a year ago she pulled a lower back muscle which forced the postponement of her tour, and about two years ago she suffered from a digestive problem that resulted in some weight loss. However, she overcame both ailments, regained the weight and completed her tour last year.

March 30, 2009
Hi Duane, just wanted to say, I went to Aberdeen  Scotland on Friday 27th March to see Stella Parton on her UK tour and it was an amazing concert! Stella sang many of Dolly's songs and also did some off of her Testimony CD, She signed autographs and was very friendly. Good to see her in Scotland after seeing Dolly last year!
Caroline Robertson
Arbroath, Scotland
Thanks for sharing, Caroline. Glad you enjoyed the show!

March 10, 2009
Oh Lordy, I just saw the Backwoods Barbie video and I am absolutely in LOVE with it! I swear "Little Dolly" totally stole the show. I love Miss Dolly, and I love this song, but that little girl was just perfect. I love how she looks a lot like Dolly did as a kid, and that they put in the pokeberries and matches! SO adorable! That kid stole the spotlight, I found myself looking for her throughout the rest of the video instead of paying attention to Dolly hahaha. But overall, I love the whole video :)
Michelle
Tampa, Fla.
Thanks, Michelle. It's a great video, isn't it. Trey Fanjoy did a wonderful job! Anyone who hasn't seen it may catch it here!

Feb. 23, 2009
I look at your site everyday.  Thanks for your dedication! I would love to see Dolly get another #1 hit. What can all of us Dolly fans do to get her back to where she belongs, at #1?
Bill
Kingsport, Tenn.
Thanks, Bill. Glad you're enjoying the site. As for getting Dolly back to the top of the charts, that will prove quite difficult. About the only thing you can do is call radio stations and request her latest single. Unfortunately, nearly all stations today are owned by huge corporations that dictate to radio programmers that they are only allowed to play a few dozen specific songs, and because they don't think Dolly attracts the demographic of young listener they want for their stations' advertisers, they almost never include her on the list. Consequently, most stations won't play her songs, even in response to listener requests. Some disc jockeys will be polite and lie, telling the caller they'll try to get it on the air but then don't play it, while others are honest and tell the caller that they just don't play her new music but can try and get a "classic" Dolly song on the air for them. Every once in a while, the call will result in the station playing the song, but that's quite rare. Perhaps if enough people in one city call their local station, that could change, but I wouldn't hold my breath.

Feb. 18, 2009
Thank you for the video.
Mike
Bristol, Va.
Glad to have posted it, Mike, and happy you enjoyed it. For readers who haven't seen it yet, a Dollymania News Video Report on Dolly's appearances in Washington last week was added to the site Monday night. You may access it here and check out the full coverage section for the trip here.

Feb. 18, 2009
Hey man! When you update tonight I really think you should urge everyone to call in and request "Drives Me Crazy" on Adult Contemporary stations since its #35 now! Wouldn't it be great for that to go further up the charts and add another single to her tally! thanks man- Keep up the great work-
Chad
Georgetown, Ohio
Here you go, Chad: Everyone call and request the song.

Feb. 17, 2009
HELLO!  I just wanted to share my news with fellow Dolly lovers. I have always loved the DP and try to always see her when she is in Dollywood.  So this weekend on Feb 14th my boyfriend & I went to Sevierville, Tn and visited the Dolly statue on the courthouse lawn and right there in front of Dolly he got down on his knees and asked me to marry him. So Dolly will always be part of our history. 
Michelle O'Quinn
Saltville, Va.
Congratulations, Michelle! What a Valentine's Day you had! I assume you must have said “yes,” since you're telling all of us :) Thanks for sharing your story, and many well wishes for a blessed life together.

Feb. 13, 2009
Hey there! First thing i want to ask-  what is happening with dollypartonmusic.net right now? I can't log in or anything. Second thing- will Dolly tour in 2009 or will we have to wait a few years? And last thing I want to ask- is Dolly Parton 63 now? If so she is doing good for her age.
Melissa
Scotland, U.K.
Hey, Melissa! To answer your questions, Dolly's record label website, DollyPartonMusic.net, is undergoing a complete site redesign, so all of the parts you are used to seeing are gone until the new site launches in March. All members of the website's Dollyite online fan community are being asked to re-enter their usernames and a new password on the Dollyite page, but you actually won't be able to log in with that username and new password until March (to compensate for the loss of so much content, memberships have been extended for three months at no charge). For your second question, no, Dolly is not planning to tour in 2009. She hasn't said what she intends to do in 2010, though :) Finally, she certainly doesn't look it, but yes, Dolly turned 63 in January.

Jan. 20, 2009
I'm A French Fan, Today 01-19, Happy Birthday Miss Dolly Parton, That your voice continues to enchant our hearts
Ali
France
Thanks for sharing your well-wishes for Dolly, Ali!

Jan. 8, 2009
Hey Duane, I was wondering if you had any information of when Dolly will be in the park this year. I need to schedule some days off from work, and would like to schedule them fo these days. You had said earlier that she would be in the park for the Festival of nations, and then again for the parade on the parkway on May 8th. I just wanted to confirm this, and see if you had any other info. Thanks for everything,
Jerail
Sylacauga, Ala.
You're not the only one to write in asking about that in recent days, Jerail. Look for news in tonight's news page update!

Jan. 8, 2009
I am a Dolly tribute and was featured on “For The Love Of Dolly” DVD recorded in 2002. I would like to send Dollymania pictures/DVD of me now as Dolly. Please let me know if you would like me to send an e-mail with pics and info. Please e-mail me anytime. Thank you. Loving Dolly always,
Sarah Jayne
Kent, U.K.
Thanks, Sarah Jayne. Some of your photos have been posted on the “Others” page here of the site's Fan Antics section.

Jan. 2, 2009
Hey Daune i just wanted to pass along my good news to everyone! I won the Christmas To Remember contest on Digital Rodeo which you won a signed copy Backwoods Barbie cd and other goodies n which the other goodies are a keyring and a tshirt which i haven't seen the tshirt before not even on tour so i'm not sure if it maybe a made up one but i still love it :)) There were 4 other wins as well.. Thanks for all the Dolly info n keep up the AMAZING work you do for us fans :)) .x.
Amanda Baxter
Edinburgh, Scotland
Congrats, Amanda!